One in three couples struggles with infertility, according to the American Pregnancy Association. While infertility can affect anyone, there are several fertility factors that people are not aware of that could be impacting their chances of conceiving.

Age and Infertility

Age plays a significant factor in fertility, and many people are unaware of how age can impact their ability to conceive.

Women in their 20s have a 20% chance of getting pregnant each month, while women in their 30s have a 15% chance, and women in their 40s have a 5% chance. Men’s fertility also declines as they age, and after age 40, their sperm count and motility decrease, which can make conception more challenging.

Weight and Infertility

Weight also plays a factor in fertility, and being over or underweight can impact a couple’s ability to conceive.

Overweight women are more likely to have irregular menstrual cycles, which can make it harder to predict ovulation, while underweight women may experience a loss of menstruation. Men who are obese are more likely to have lower testosterone levels and sperm quality.

Sexually Transmitted Infections and Infertility

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can also impact fertility. STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease in women, which can lead to infertility.

Both men and women who have an STI may also experience scarring in their reproductive organs, making it more difficult to conceive.

Environmental Factors and Infertility

Environmental factors can also impact fertility. Exposure to toxins like pesticides, chemicals, and radiation can damage sperm and eggs, making it harder to conceive. These toxins can also lead to birth defects and other reproductive health issues.

Endometriosis and Infertility

Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of the uterus, and it can cause painful and heavy periods.

This condition can impact fertility because the tissue can block the fallopian tubes or impact the quality of eggs, making it harder to conceive.

PCOS and Infertility

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition where a woman’s body produces too much insulin, which can cause hormonal imbalances. PCOS can impact fertility because it can prevent ovulation, making it harder to conceive.

Stress and Infertility

While stress does not directly cause infertility, it can impact a person’s ability to conceive. Stress can lead to hormonal imbalances, which can affect ovulation.

Additionally, stress can impact a person’s libido, making it more challenging to conceive.

Fertility Treatments and Infertility

Fertility treatments can also impact a person’s chances of conceiving. Treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be costly and not always successful.

Additionally, fertility treatments can take an emotional toll on a couple, adding stress to the already challenging experience of trying to conceive.

Conclusion

Infertility can be caused by various factors, and it’s important for couples to be aware of these factors to better understand their chances of conceiving.

While some factors like age and weight cannot be changed, others like STIs and environmental factors can be prevented. Additionally, seeking the help of a fertility specialist can increase a couple’s chances of success and provide support during the emotional journey of trying to conceive.